Whitney is an award-winning architect who has been a principal at WBRC since 1989 after joining the firm in 1980, according to a WBRC press release. He led the creation of the company’s Florida branch in Lakewood Ranch in 2002. With projects across 17 states, the branch has grown under his watch and earned the trust of regional and national clients, including Universal Health Services, Bealls Outlets, and Verizon Wireless.

“Doug’s leadership abilities are evidenced by the success he’s achieved in the Sarasota/Bradenton area,” said WBRC’s CFO Alan C. Bromley, PE, LEED AP, in a press release. “As the economy emerges from its recent downturn, Doug will help lead WBRC to new levels of growth and client service.”

Whitney, a graduate of Syracuse University, will manage the Maine-based company primarily from WBRC’s offices in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. “A decade ago, this would have been impractical,” he says. “With today’s video conferencing and shared servers, we have been working as a team from three offices on a daily basis. Our use of technology to collaborate is a key factor in our ability to efficiently manage projects nationally and internationally.”

Rob Frank, PE, LEED AP, head of the firm’s Commercial/Civic Studios and principal of the firm, said: “Doug is a master at both solving problems and creating opportunities for clients. We’re excited about moving into our 112th year and beyond under his leadership.”

WBRC serves clients in 23 states, as well as three provinces in Atlantic Canada, through its three offices in Bangor and Portland, and Lakewood Ranch, Fla.

“WBRC has been improving people’s lives for generations through high-quality design solutions,” Whitney said in the press release. “It is a privilege to build on that track record by expanding our reach across the country while continuing to provide our clients with innovative and responsible design.”

Whitney succeeds outgoing President and CEO Stephen B. Rich, AIA, LEED AP, who is stepping back from the daily obligations of leading the firm.

“This is a great step forward for WBRC. Doug’s talent, experience and leadership are long standing assets for our firm. I know that he brings forward all the skills needed to continue advancing the WBRC legacy of high quality design and outstanding client service,” Rich said in a press release.

Rich, an architect, has served WBRC for 33 years, designing community landmarks such as UMaine’s Alfond Sports Stadium, UMaine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center and Offshore Wind Laboratory, Hermon High School, and the Old Town and Falmouth Libraries.

Known for his dedication to community service, Rich serves on the boards of the Maine Chamber of Commerce, Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems, and AIA-Maine, among others, and recently was named a Paul Harris Fellow by Bangor Rotary Club.

Rich plans to focus on civic and community interests while continuing to represent WBRC Architects • Engineers in the community as Architect Of Counsel.

“Steve Rich has contributed immeasurably to this firm as an architect, COO, and most recently as President and CEO,” Whitney said in the press release. “We are truly grateful for all he has done for this company and its clients. He is an indelible part of WBRC’s legacy.”

Founded in 1902, WBRC Architects ∙ Engineers has an extensive portfolio of projects across all sectors, including civic, commercial, educational, and healthcare. Owned by seven A/E professionals, the firm employs more than 60 people in three offices located in Bangor and Portland, Maine, and Lakewood Ranch, Florida. Nearly half of WBRC’s design professionals hold LEED AP credentials. Design disciplines included are architecture, civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering as well as interior design and landscape architecture. Learn more at www.wbrcae.com.

WBRC serves clients in 23 states and three provinces in Atlantic Canada.